Thailand Treasures and Tropical Escape 14 Days

Tour Detail


Destinations: Bangkok – Kanchanaburi – Ayutthaya – Chiang Rai – Chiang Saen – Chiang Mai – Koh Chang Island.

Duration: 14 Days

Overview: Experience the best of Thailand on this captivating 14-day journey. Begin in Bangkok with visits to the Grand Palace, Wat Pho, and the bustling markets, then venture to Kanchanaburi to explore World War II history and the scenic Erawan Waterfall. Discover northern Thailand’s cultural and natural beauty, from Chiang Rai’s unique temples and ethnic villages to Chiang Mai’s ancient sites and vibrant markets. Conclude with relaxation on Koh Chang Island, enjoying its stunning beaches and laid-back atmosphere before returning to Bangkok for your departure.

Itinerary


Upon arrival at Bangkok airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel. The glorious history of Thailand’s capital, Bangkok, is closely linked to the Chakri dynasty, which still reigns but does not rule. You’ll settle into the hotel and have free time to relax. Overnight in Bangkok.

After breakfast, you’ll visit the Grand Royal Palace, dedicated to the ceremonies of the Thai royal family. It’s the most sacred, respected, and majestic place in Bangkok. The Grand Palace, or Royal Palace, is a complex of historical monuments built over centuries, including temples and official buildings still in use today.

Within the same compound, you’ll find the magnificent Wat Phra Kaew, renowned for its Emerald Buddha statue.

After exploring this complex, you’ll continue to Wat Pho, home to the giant Reclining Buddha. Wat Pho is one of the oldest and largest Buddhist temples in Bangkok, located on the eastern shore of the Chao Phraya River, south of the Grand Palace. The temple’s symbol is the famous Reclining Buddha statue, which represents Buddha on his deathbed. The statue is 45 meters long and 15 meters high, with feet inlaid with mother of pearl.

After lunch at a local restaurant, you’ll take a walk through Chinatown, known as one of the busiest areas in Bangkok, famous for its various regional specialties. The dishes here are prepared with the freshest ingredients of the day. You’ll also visit Wat Traimit, known for the Golden Buddha.

In the afternoon, you’ll board a long-tail boat for a trip along the Chao Phraya River and the lively inner canals of Thonburi, offering fantastic views of local life. You’ll have the opportunity to snack, buy trinkets, or use the toilet at stops along the way. During the trip, you’ll stop at Wat Arun, the Temple of Dawn. You’ll return to the hotel for free time and stay overnight in Bangkok.

Your day begins with a visit to Mae Klong Railway Market, where a bustling country market lines the tracks. As a train approaches or departs, vendors swiftly clear their stalls, only to set them up again moments later. Next, you’ll continue to the renowned Damnoen Saduak Floating Market. Despite its touristy nature, it remains a prime example of traditional floating markets. Enjoy a relaxing paddle boat ride through the canals to witness local life and the historic market. Once ashore, you’ll explore the vibrant marketplace filled with boats and vendors selling tropical fruits and other goods.

If your visit is on a Saturday or Sunday, you can choose between Damnoen Saduak and the smaller, less touristy Tha Kha Floating Market, where a brief paddle boat tour through the backwaters includes a visit to a traditional Thai house making coconut palm sugar.

Next, you’ll travel to Kanchanaburi to explore World War II memorials, including the JEATH War Museum and the Cemetery. You’ll then take a scenic 30-minute train ride from Wang Pho along the historic railway, enjoying picturesque views of the river. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay in Kanchanaburi.

After breakfast, you’ll depart for Erawan Waterfall, a stunning seven-tiered waterfall located in Erawan National Park. As you walk up to view each picturesque tier, it’s best to wear good walking shoes. Remember to bring your swimming suit if you’d like to swim in the natural pools.

In the afternoon, you’ll continue your journey to Ayutthaya. Known as the ‘Venice of the East,’ Ayutthaya is located along the Chao Phraya River and its tributaries that surround the province. You’ll have the chance to explore many monuments and remains from this ancient city, founded in 1350 by King Uthong when the Thai migrated south under pressure from their northern neighbors. You’ll spend the night in Ayutthaya.

After breakfast, you’ll hop into a charming Kermit tuk-tuk, a unique mode of transport found only in Ayutthaya and Trang. During the ride, you’ll explore the city’s temple highlights, including Wat Yai Chaimongkol, Wat Mahathat (notable for a Buddha face emerging from a tree), and a local market en route to Wat Phra Srisanphet.

Next, you’ll visit the Bang Pa-In Summer Palace, a striking blend of European, Khmer, Thai, and Chinese architectural styles, and the King’s preferred summer retreat.

You’ll then return to Bangkok for your flight to Chiang Rai. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel and have the rest of the day free to relax. You’ll spend the night in Chiang Rai.

After breakfast, you’ll visit the local market to discover local products. Next, you’ll visit the world-famous Wat Phra Kaew, where the Emerald Buddha image was once enshrined. You’ll then move on to Wat Phra Singh, where one of Thailand’s most beautiful Buddha images is currently enshrined.

Afterward, you’ll take a short drive from Chiang Rai City to the Black House. Baan Dam (Black House) is the unique creation of national artist Thawan Duchanee. Part art studio, part museum, and part home, Baan Dam features an eclectic mix of traditional northern Thai buildings alongside some outlandish modern designs.

In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a boat cruise on the Mae Kok River from Chiang Rai to a Karen village, where you can watch or feed elephants. Following this, you’ll take a one-hour elephant trek. You’ll then transfer back to Chiang Rai and stay overnight.

After breakfast, you’ll depart for northern Thailand, a region known for its wooded, mountainous, and beautiful landscapes. This morning, you’ll explore the area, starting with a drive to Mae Salong. As you climb up and down the green hills covered with tea plantations, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the delicious tea produced by one of the many plantations in the region.

From Doi Mae Salong, you’ll visit two ethnic minority villages: the Akha village of Loyo and the Lisu village of Ban Hanygo. Afterward, you’ll explore the Mae Fah Luang Botanical Garden.

Upon arriving in the Golden Triangle, you’ll take a boat trip on the Mekong River to see the intersection of Thailand, Burma, and Laos. You’ll then stay overnight in Chiang Saen.

After breakfast, you’ll leave the hotel for Thaton. On the way, you’ll make a stop in the village of Patai to meet the Padong Karen tribe, famous for its women who wear copper rings around their necks to lengthen them. You’ll then visit a traditional Chinese medicine pharmacy where an expert will explain the use of herbs, roots, plants, and ointments.

In the afternoon, you’ll continue your journey to Chiang Mai, the capital of the North, and stop for a walk through the maze of underground galleries in Chiang Dao. You’ll stay overnight in Chiang Mai.

In the morning, you’ll primarily enjoy a walking tour of the old town, with stops at the old wall, the moat, and a gate of the old town. You’ll see some of the most beautiful temples in Chiang Mai, including Wat Phra Singh, Wat Pan Tao, and Wat Chedi Luang.

Next, you’ll stroll along small streets lined with traditional houses and take a rickshaw tour. After that, you’ll walk through the central Warorot Market before visiting Doi Suthep Hill. To brighten up your evening, you’ll browse the Night Market at your leisure. You’ll stay overnight in Chiang Mai.

After breakfast in the morning, you’ll transfer to the Elephant Poopoo Paper Farm, an eco-friendly, outdoor museum park that introduces and explains the unique steps involved in making paper products from elephant poop fibers.

At Elephant Poopoo Park Chiang Mai, you’ll explore eight pavilions that will show you the process from elephant poop to the final paper product. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to practice making Poopoo paper yourself. Exciting!

In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a two-hour boat trip along the Mae Ping River, which is an excellent way to spend your time. As you watch the changing scenery along the river, you’ll see beautiful traditional teak houses and a lot of rural greenery.

Finally, you’ll take an overnight train in a second-class cabin to Bangkok, without a guide. You’ll stay overnight on board.

Upon arrival in Bangkok in the morning around 7-8 am, you’ll be picked up and transferred to Bangkok airport for your noon flight to Trat airport (morning or noon flights are recommended).

Upon arrival in Trat, you’ll be picked up and transferred to the pier, where you’ll catch the ferry to Koh Chang Island. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang features steep, jungle-covered peaks and retains its remote and rugged spirit, despite some areas being developed for package tours. You’ll find sweeping bays along the west coast, most with superfine sand, and some with pebbles. What Koh Chang lacks in sand, it makes up for with a unique combination of accessible wilderness and a thriving party scene.

You’ll have time to enjoy the beach and the resort at your leisure. Time is free, and you’ll stay overnight on Koh Chang Island.

The estimated ferry departure time is between 15:45 and 16:15.

Your time will be your own! You’ll spend the night in Koh Chang Island.

Your time will be your own! You’ll spend the night in Koh Chang Island.

In the morning, you’ll be picked up and transferred to the ferry, and then to Trat airport. End of services.

The estimated ferry departure time is between 09:45 and 10:15.

PRICE GUIDE & NOTES


Pricing depends on your group size and requested services, such as hotel type. Please fill out the form below, and we'll respond within 24 hours.

Meals: 7 MEALS
Transportation: Private vehicle, Boat, Plane
Accommodation: Based On Your Request

WHAT'S INCLUDED


  • Accommodation sharing double/twin room.
  • Pick-ups and transfers by private air-conditioned vehicle as specified in the itinerary above.
  • Boat cruises as specified in the programme.
  • Domestic flight ticketS (economy class): Bangkok – Trat and Trat – Bangkok including airport tax.
  • Train ticket: Mae Ping to bangkok.
  • Travel in an appropriate private air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced safe driver.
  • The services of experienced English-speaking guides as indicated in the itinerary (your other preferred languages are available upon request)
  • Entry fees for all visits as mentioned in the programme.
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary (B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner)
  • Service charges and government taxes.

WHAT'S EXCLUDED


  • Other international flight tickets and airport tax.
  • Visas
  • Lunches and dinners, except as specified above.
  • Drinks, tippings, and personal expenses.
  • Insurance.

BEST TIME TO & & VISIT


Best Weather
Good Weather
Average Weather
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

FAQ


How does Vietnam cater to special dietary requirements?
At Luxury Travel Agency Vietnam, we ensure that your dietary needs are met by communicating your restrictions to hotels and restaurants in advance. We also brief our guides on your specific requirements to ensure you receive the appropriate meals throughout your trip.
What vegetarian options are available in Vietnam?
Although vegetarian options can be somewhat limited, especially outside major cities, you will find some vegetarian restaurants in larger urban areas. Vegetable-based dishes are relatively easy to find, and the selection of fresh fruit is exceptional.
Are there restrictions on photography in Vietnam?
Yes, there are restrictions on photography in Vietnam, particularly near military installations, airports, and other sensitive areas. It’s important to respect these guidelines to avoid issues such as equipment confiscation or legal trouble. Always seek permission before photographing restricted sites.
Can itinerary changes be made after arrival in Vietnam?
Yes, itinerary changes can be accommodated where possible. Once the official payment has been made, any changes to the tour details should be requested via email to info@luxurytravelagencyvietnam.com or directly to the staff handling your booking. Please note that changes may incur surcharges from hotels and restaurants, depending on the specific case. Additionally, the ability to amend reservations is subject to the availability of our suppliers, including hotels, restaurants, and other service providers. Minor changes involving minimal or no additional costs are typically offered as a complimentary service.
Can I enter Vietnam later than my granted arrival date in visa approval letter?
Yes, you can enter later than the granted arrival date in visa approval letter providing that you exit by granted exit date.
Can I purchase antiques in Vietnam?
You can purchase antiques in Vietnam, but keep in mind that only items less than 100 years old are legally permitted for export. The process for exporting recent artifacts can be complex, and there is a risk of high-quality replicas being confiscated at the airport. It’s advisable to buy from reputable dealers and ensure all items have the necessary documentation.
Are internet facilities widely available in Vietnam?
Yes, internet access is widely available in cities and major towns throughout Vietnam. Most large hotels provide Wi-Fi for guests, and internet cafes are plentiful and affordable.
As an American, should I expect hostility in Vietnam due to the war?
You might be pleasantly surprised by the warm reception you'll receive in Vietnam. The focus of the community is on the present and future, and they warmly welcome visitors from all backgrounds without holding onto past grievances. In fact, American tourists consistently rank among the top visitors to Vietnam.